Jeep Confronts the Aftermarket Head-on With New Mopar Parts

By Zach Vlasuk on April 29, 2014 3:59 PM

Share this article

Few drivers outfit their vehicles with more bolt-on parts and accessories than Jeep owners. Hungry for a large slice of the aftermarket pie, Chrysler's Mopar division recently announced their plan to offer a host of branded accessories and performance parts for the Jeep Wrangler, Cherokee, and forthcoming Renegade. But, before we dive into the details, it's worth pointing out the significance of this product launch as it relates to the Jeep enthusiast.

Unlike most aftermarket performance parts, Mopar components are rigorously tested by factory engineers and held to the same quality standards as original equipment. In terms of value and peace of mind, all Mopar parts and accessories are backed by the same 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty or 3-year/36,000 basic warranty, depending on the product. Jeep is also considering the prospect of offering port-or factory-installed performance parts on select models, meaning you could potentially bundle your vehicle purchase and accessories into a single monthly payment. What's more, pre-installed (excluding dealer-installed) parts are crash tested along with the vehicle.

So, with that out of the way, let's have a look at the newest additions to the Mopar parts catalog.

Wrangler

We had the opportunity to view and briefly experience Mopar's new two-inch suspension lift kit for 2-and 4-door JK-series Wranglers during the annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. The complete dealer-installed package comprises proprietary FOX IFT shock absorbers, track bar brackets, sway bar end links, a Mopar performance driveshaft, and taller springs. The resulting elevated ride height can accommodate tire sizes of up to 35 inches. If you're a hardcore do-it-yourselfer, the kit can be ordered in a specially-designed wooden crate that, as you may have guessed, fits neatly into the cargo area of a current generation Wrangler. Nationwide availability begins mid-May, while Mopar's in-house-tuned Dana 60 axles are expected to start shipping in July.

Because the Jeep Cherokee and forthcoming Renegade are not billed as serious off-roaders, their collection of newly available Mopar parts leans more towards the cosmetic and practical side of the accessory spectrum. Cherokee highlights consist of a matte black hood decal, splash guards, various types of roof-mounted racks, a pet carrier, and rock rails that help prevent body damage in low-clearance situations. As for the Renegade, key callouts include trailer hitches, a roof rack with cross bars, unique 17-and 18-inch wheels, a camping tent, and premium Katzkin leather seats. Cherokee accessories are available now, with Renegade parts launching in sequence with the vehicle in early 2015. Lastly, many of the aforementioned parts and accessories can be seen in action on the concept vehicles displayed in the photo gallery.